Baltimore, January 22, 2026

Five notable chefs and restaurants from Maryland have been recognized as semifinalists for the prestigious James Beard Awards, highlighting the state’s vibrant culinary scene. This acknowledgment showcases the resilience and innovation of local dining establishments in navigating competitive landscapes. The nominations include chefs from Baltimore and Silver Spring, emphasizing the diversity and creativity of the region’s gastronomic culture. With the awards ceremony approaching, community support for these culinary talents becomes increasingly essential.

Maryland Chefs Shine as Semifinalists in 2026 James Beard Awards

Local culinary talent recognized, highlighting Maryland’s vibrant food scene.

Baltimore, MD – The culinary arts are alive and flourishing in Maryland as five remarkable chefs and restaurants have been named semifinalists for the prestigious 2026 James Beard Awards, underscoring the region’s rich gastronomic culture. These awards, often dubbed the “Oscars of food,” celebrate the exceptional work of culinary experts across the nation, with local chefs representing Baltimore and Silver Spring remarkably well.

This significant acknowledgment reflects not just individual talent but also the resilience and innovation of small businesses in the local dining scene. As entrepreneurs navigate a competitive environment, these nominations serve as a testament to what can be achieved when creativity and dedication meet reduced regulatory burdens. As Maryland continues to foster a thriving business climate, the achievements of these nominated establishments are a notable part of our economic growth narrative.

Celebrated Individuals and Establishments

The Maryland semifinalists include:

• Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic: Darmyelesh Alemu of Beteseb in Silver Spring and Matthew Oetting of Marta in Baltimore.
• Outstanding Bakery: Café Dear Leon in Baltimore.
• Best New Bar: Pink Flamingo in Baltimore.
• Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service: Doug Atwell of Southpaw in Baltimore.

These nominees represent a blend of innovation and tradition, showcasing the diverse culinary landscape that Baltimore has to offer.

How the Nominations Impact Local Business

The recognition from the James Beard Foundation brings significant attention not only to the nominated individuals and establishments but also to the greater Baltimore entrepreneur community. Such accolades can spur increased foot traffic, bolster local supply chains, and encourage culinary entrepreneurship. By combining passion with perseverance, Maryland’s chefs are paving the path for economic growth and community engagement.

Beyond Maryland: The D.C. Influence

In addition to our local talent, several establishments from Washington, D.C., also received nominations, showcasing the regional culinary prowess. Notable mentions include:

• Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic: Matthew Adler of Cucina Morini, Fernando Gonzalez of 2Fifty TX BBQ, and Cagla Onal of My Little Chamomile.
• Outstanding Restaurateur: Scott Drewno and Danny Lee of Fried Rice Collective (Anju, Chiko, and I Egg You).
• Outstanding Chef: Peter Pastan of 2 Amys.
• Outstanding Restaurant: Centrolina.
• Emerging Chef: Anthony Jones of Marcus DC.

This recognition not only highlights individual culinary achievements but also showcases the collaborative spirit permeating the D.C. metropolitan area. The interconnectivity of the local dining scenes enhances the overall culinary experience for residents and visitors alike.

The Significance of the James Beard Awards

The James Beard Foundation has been at the forefront of promoting culinary excellence since 1990. The awards span multiple categories, including Best Chef and Outstanding Restaurant, and are highly sought after in the food industry. The upcoming ceremony in Chicago on June 15 will celebrate the winners, marking a significant milestone in the culinary calendar.

Supporting Local Culinary Talent

As the finalists are to be announced on March 31, there’s a growing anticipation surrounding the upcoming ceremony. Regardless of the outcomes, the engagement and support from the community are vital in promoting these local culinary talents. Each of us can contribute by dining at nominated establishments, sharing experiences, and advocating for local business initiatives.

Conclusion

The nominations of Maryland chefs and restaurants for the 2026 James Beard Awards are a proud moment for our community, emphasizing the importance of entrepreneurial spirit and innovation within the culinary field. By celebrating these achievements, we support not just individual endeavors but the greater economic landscape of Baltimore. As we await the finalists’ announcement, let’s continue to champion our local food scene and the dedicated individuals shaping it.

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Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER

The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.